Illinois Tollway proposes record-rate hike to fund 15-year expansion

The Illinois Tollway unveiled its largest rate hike in state history as part of a 15-year, $26.5 billion Driving Connections program (2027-2042) to fund major roadwork, including a new I-490 tollway. If approved, passenger-vehicle rates with I-Pass would rise 45 cents and non-I-Pass users 90 cents, commercial-vehicle rates would increase about 30%, with CPI-based adjustments every two years. Rates would take effect January 1, 2027, and the Tollway will hold public hearings July 13-24 with a comment deadline of August 3, 2026; the plan also involves nearby corridor improvements and ongoing maintenance funding.